Petrolicious Explores One Collector’s Obsession with Group B Rally Cars
Only the bravest drivers need apply
Conner GoldenWriter
Petrolicious Explores One Collector’s Obsession with Group B Rally Cars
Only the bravest drivers need apply
Conner GoldenWriter
Rally drivers during the era of Group B were some certifiably insane individuals. The Group B rally class, unhindered by pesky things like "restrictions" or "regulation," aside from some basic engine size and safety limits, developed into an arms race between manufacturers. Eventually, the cars became so fast and uncontrollable, the death toll began to rise. The FIA stepped in, and the class was abolished. Now, the cars remain silent, mothballed into the archived collections of museums. Well, some of the cars, at least. In the newest Petrolicious flick, esteemed Group B collector and connoisseur John Campion discusses his obsession with decades-old rally wonders.
Like many other enthusiasts, Campion remembers his passion developing from his father. "My father was a mechanical kind of guy, and we grew up restoring old tractors and steam engines—so once I started making a few dollars, I started purchasing cars…" Campion says. "So once I started making a few dollars, I started purchasing cars, and went through myriad of cars and ended up where we are today, which is predominantly cars from my youth—rally cars."
His eclectic automotive collection centers around a large chunk of period-correct competition Lancias, including a fantastic Delta S4 featured in the video. These might be pricey garage showpieces, but Campion exercises the cars regularly. "If you own them and don't show them, and you own them and don't drive them, and own them but don't share them…it's a rich man's folly," Campion toldPetrolicious.
Catch an earful of the wild Group B Lancia Delta S4 in newest episode ofPetroliciousbelow.